Untitled Flashcards Set

What does an increase in sodium levels indicate in Arthur's case?

It indicates the severity of compensation due to sepsis causing systemic vasodilation and increased sodium and water reabsorption to compensate for fluid leakage.

How does high potassium relate to Arthur's hypoxia?

High potassium is released from cells undergoing ischemia, which is caused by hypoxia from reduced cardiac output due to sepsis and exacerbated COPD.

What is the risk associated with high potassium levels?

High potassium can cause ventricular arrhythmias, which are life-threatening.

What role does salbutamol play related to potassium levels?

Salbutamol can cause hypokalaemia by driving potassium into cells, increasing the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

How does sepsis affect kidney function in Arthur?

Sepsis reduces cardiac output, causing ischemic death to the glomerular filtration membrane and leading to acute kidney injury, increasing levels of creatinine and urea.

Why is low hemoglobin a concern in Arthur's case?

Low hemoglobin decreases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, worsening hypoxemia and risking cell death and organ dysfunction.

What immune response indicators are elevated in Arthur due to sepsis?

An increase in neutrophils and monocytes indicates an intense inflammatory response to the infection.

How does sepsis lead to the depletion of platelets?

Systemic activation of platelets in response to capillary damage depletes their levels, which can lead to prolonged clotting time and microthrombi.

What severe condition can arise from the depletion of clotting factors in sepsis?

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC), which can lead to multi-organ failure.